IT Specialist IPS Core

We are seeking a motivated scientist/engineer to become the primary, technical champion of our new automated iPSC cell culture platform. This individual will play a key role in establishing, operating and continuously improving the platform, working closely with automation specialists and scientists during installation, onboarding and routine operation. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive training in both automated platform operation and the underlying manual cell culture methodologies to become the in-house expert for the system. To support this initiative, we are seeking a technical engineer responsible for the maintenance, optimization, and programming of our laboratory automation systems. You will work at the intersection of life sciences, robotics, and software-driven laboratory automation to develop and implement advanced automated workflows for iPSC culture and differentiation. A strong affinity for both biological systems and technical/robotic platforms is essential. Key responsibilities

• Take ownership of the day-to-day operation of the automated iPSC culture platform.
• Become the primary technical expert and first point of contact for the automation system.
• Learn and apply manual iPSC culture techniques to understand and optimise automated workflows.
• Operate, maintain and perform first-line troubleshooting of robotic systems, liquid handling platforms and incubation systems.
• Support installation, commissioning, qualification and validation of the automated platform.
• Design, optimise and implement automated workflows for cell culture and differentiation processes.
• Collaborate with automation vendors and internal scientists to continuously improve platform performance.
• Integrate hardware, software and laboratory instrumentation.
• Optimise workflows to improve throughput, reproducibility and operational efficiency.
• Document SOPs, workflows, validation activities and system changes.
• Support data management, workflow orchestration and automation software where appropriate. Work environment The Erasmus MC iPS Core Facility was established in 2012 to support fundamental and translational research through the derivation of high-quality induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and the generation of differentiated cells for disease modelling applications. We focus on advanced iPSC-based disease modelling and the development of automated platforms that enable scalable, reproducible, and efficient cell culture and differentiation workflows. Currently, we are developing an automated high-throughput platform named AISHA. (Automation for iPSC Systems & High-throughput Analysis) to further enhance the derivation and differentiation of iPSCs in a fully integrated and automated manner. to support future iPS technology applications. You will be working at the iPS Core Facility, where we are a small team with an informal and open atmosphere, in which collaboration and mutual support come naturally. Clear communication, open discussion, and well-structured organization are essential in our daily work, allowing us to strengthen each other and continuously learn together. Our focus is on delivering high-quality work, with precision and accuracy at the core of everything we do. We continuously embrace cutting-edge technologies and develop new applications to advance our research capabilities. You will be working in a research-rich environment as part of the Department of Developmental Biology, with extensive interaction with various research groups. This provides a diverse and stimulating workplace with many opportunities for learning and professional development. There are ample opportunities to grow both scientifically and professionally within an innovative and stimulating work environment.

We are seeking a motivated IT-specialist with a Bachelors degree (HBO/HTS) in electrical, biomedical or mechanical engineering or Technical Computer Science or Industrial Automation. The following qualifications and skills are important criteria to qualify for this role:

• 0-2 years of professional experience (recent graduates are encouraged to apply).
• Strong interest in laboratory automation, robotics or life science technologies.
• Strong willingness to learn manual iPSC cell culture techniques and associated laboratory workflows.
• Programming experience (Python, C#, LabVIEW or similar).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently within an R&D environment.

• Strong communication skills in English (Dutch is advantageous). The ideal candidate has the following qualifications and skills:

• Experience with robotics, PLCs, liquid handling systems or industrial automation.
• Experience with laboratory automation platforms.
• Experience with Mechatronics.
• Familiarity with GxP documentation, validation or regulated laboratory environments.
• Interest in data integration, workflow orchestration and digital laboratory technologies.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary engineering and life science teams.

Describe the key terms of employment that make it attractive to the candidate. Use bullet points to keep attention. Consider:

• You will receive a temporary position for one year, with the possibility of extension.
• The gross monthly salary amounts a minimum of €3.550,- and a maximum of €4.722,- (scale 8).
• A salary increase of 3,5% from May 2027, according to the collective labor agreement (CLA).
• Excellent fringe benefits, such as a 13th month that is already paid out in November and a individual travel expense package.
• An International Office which aids you in preparing for you arrival and stay.
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 2/3 of the monthly contribution.
• Special benefits, such as a in company physiotherapist and bicycle repairer. And there is also a gym where you can work on your fitness after work. Application proces 1 Apply 2 Selection Step 2 - Selection Based on your application, we check to see if there is a fit between us. We will let you know as soon as possible whether you are invited for an interview. 3 Job interview Step 3 - Job interview You have been invited for an interview, great! In this first meeting we get to know each other and see if You can form an idea of the position, the department and Erasmus MC. If the interview goes well usually a second interview follows.